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Impact of Dispersion Methods on Nanoparticle Toxicity: A Call for Better Guidance

A recent review highlights the significant impact of dispersion methods on the outcomes of toxicity tests involving nanoparticles. The authors found that variations in dispersion methods, such as sonication settings and the composition of the dispersion medium, can affect the agglomerate particle size and, consequently, the toxicity of nanoparticles. The authors emphasise the need for better guidance, which has recently been published in the updated OECD guidance on sample preparation and dosimetry.

Cell-based assays are functional for selecting safer nanomaterials in product development

Cell-based assays have shown promise in predicting the lung toxicity of silica nanomaterials. Two different tests provided a ranking of the potential of different silica nanoparticles to cause persistent lung inflammation in rats. The research by the EU project SAbyNa demonstrated that cell tests can play a vital role in comparing the hazards of various candidate nanomaterials within a Safe and Sustainable by Design (SSbD) framework, aiding in the selection of safer materials during product development. Further development of cell testing is needed for other silica particles, (nano)materials and different exposure conditions.

EU Court upholds annulment of classification of Titanium dioxide in certain powder forms

The European Union’s Court of Justice recently upheld the General Court’s decision to cancel the classification of titanium dioxide (TiO2) particles, including nanoparticles, as a suspected human carcinogen. The classification was cancelled following successful appeals from manufacturers, producers and importers. An appeal to the General Court’s ruling by the EC and France was unsuccessful, and as a result, TiO2 is no longer classified as a carcinogen.

Overcoming challenges in safety test method standardisation: Insights from the NanoHarmony project

The NanoHarmony project emphasises the importance of standardising safety test methods to enhance their regulatory acceptance. It highlights the benefits of standardisation, such as showcasing the value of developers' work, expanding their networks, and improving safety testing. However, challenges include a lack of knowledge about the process, inconsistent funding, and the lengthy duration of method development and validation for regulatory acceptance. To address these issues, NanoHarmony has created resources like a white paper, training modules, and the OECD TG/GD Process Mentor to guide developers through the standardisation process.

Ensuring Safety and Sustainability of Advanced Materials: A Call for Enhanced Focus in the Chemistry Industry Action Plan

The European Chemicals Industry Action Plan (CIAP) aims to strengthen the EU chemical sector while prioritising safety, sustainability, and climate goals. The plan includes proposed actions such as forming a Critical Chemicals Alliance, simplifying labelling rules, and introducing an Advanced Materials Act by the end of 2026 to foster innovation in materials essential for clean technology and the circular economy. However, the lack of clear definitions for "advanced" materials and the challenges in properly assessing their safety and lifecycle risks are a concern. This highlights the need for reliable data and established test methods and risk assessment methodologies targeted at advanced materials that allow navigating these complexities.

Advanced materials in the energy transition and their impact on human and environmental health

The German Environment Agency (UBA) conducted a systematic literature review to identify advanced materials that are used in the energy transition. These advanced materials may pose potential risks to human health and the environment. To ensure that the energy transition itself does not create new health, environmental or social risks, it is necessary to carefully consider the safety and sustainability of these materials.

An industry guide to implement a Safe and Sustainable by Design innovation process

The European Chemical Industry Council (CEFIC) has taken a significant step towards implementing a Safe and Sustainable by Design (SSbD) approach. They published a report that outlines the process for industry players to adopt such an SSbD approach in their innovation process.

European Parliament rejects new nanomaterial definition in Novel Food Regulation

The European Parliament has rejected the revised Novel Foods definition of ‘engineered nanomaterial’. Concerns about the threshold for defining a material as an engineered nanomaterial being too high prevented its adoption.

Human biomonitoring for investigating exposure to nanomaterials

Human biomonitoring can help improve (occupational) risk assessment, provided that a clear relationship exists between a biomarker and a biologically relevant (adverse) effect. Implementing biomonitoring in the workplace will also need to consider privacy aspects.

Additional environmental risks of nanopesticides to be regarded

Interest in development of nanopesticides is growing due to their potential for greater activity or more gradual release of active substances than conventional pesticides. They are often seen as a promising sustainable alternative, requiring smaller amounts of active substances per hectare.